What set of reaction conditions should favor an S_N2 reaction on 2-bromo-3-methylbutane?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

SS1 (unimolecular substitution) reactions typically occur with carbocations as intermediates, which are most stable in polar, aprotic solvents which are not able to solvate the anion of the nucleophile. Strong nucleophiles are preferred since they can compete with the solvent for the carbocation, enhancing the reaction rate. Therefore, choice D (strong nucleophile in an aprotic solvent) is the most favorable set of reaction conditions for an S_N2 reaction on 2-bromo-3-methylbutane.

What Set of Reaction Conditions Should Favor an SN2 Reaction

What Set of Reaction Conditions Should Favor an S_N2 Reaction